Brothers arraigned over Easter Sunday dispute at party

Two brothers from Siġġiewi were arraigned in court following an argument that escalated during a party at a party on Easter Sunday night.

Roderick Montesin, a 38-year-old delivery man, and his younger brother Melvin Montesin, a 36-year-old gas company employee, both admitted to the charges brought against them.

Police Inspector Roderick Attard explained that at around 9pm, two sisters and one of their boyfriends approached Melvin Montesin while partying at the Gianpula venue. One of the women told Montesin to leave her sister alone, insisting that she “was happy without him and did not need him”.

The situation quickly became tense, prompting bouncers on duty to escort those involved out of the establishment. The argument continued outside the venue, where a grinder was allegedly used to intimidate the women.

Both men were charged with slightly injuring the boyfriend while Melvin Montesin alone was charged with causing the three individuals to fear that violence would be used against them, causing slight injuries to one of the women, making threats and insults and breaching two separate bails.

The women later filed a police report on the incident. Following his arrest, Melvin Montesin also filed a report against one of the alleged victims. The arrest of both men was not contested.

In court, it was noted that Melvin Montesin had played a role in escalating the incident but later showed remorse. The prosecution considered the seriousness of the matter and requested that a probation order be imposed along with a fine and the revocation of two previous bail deposits. The defence agreed on punishment.

Roderick Montesin was found guilty by his own admission. He was handed a two-year probation order and placed under the surveillance of a probation officer.

Melvin Montesin was similarly found guilty and handed a 13-month sentence, suspended for three years. He was also fined €500 and €2,000 from his previous bail deposits were  confiscated.

Restraining orders were issued for both men in favour of the three victims.

Inspector Roderick Attard prosecuted. Lawyer Nicholas Mifsud appeared for Melvin Montesin while lawyers Ishmael Psaila and Amadeus Cachia represented Roderick Montesin.

Magistrate Kevan Azzopardi presided over the arraignment.